Capsulectomy

Capsulectomy is a surgical procedure wherein fibrous scar tissue, known as the capsule, that forms around breast implants, is carefully removed. This operation can alleviate discomfort and symptoms associated with breast implant complications, especially capsular contracture. Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue that forms around the implant tightens and thickens, which can lead to abnormal firmness, shape distortion, or pain in more severe cases. ⁽¹⁾ A capsulectomy aims to restore comfort and aesthetic balance. ⁽²⁾

Dr. Eric P. Bachelor of East Bay Aesthetic Surgery is one of the Bay Area’s leading plastic surgeons and has been recognized as one of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons by Consumers’ Research Council of America. His commitments to safety, personalized patient care, and advanced techniques have helped tens of thousands of patients achieve exceptional results.

If you are facing challenges due to capsular contracture, Dr. Bachelor is here to help! Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bachelor today to explore your treatment options. You can get in touch with our staff by submitting our online contact form, or you can call our Pleasanton or Danville offices directly at (925) 462-3700.

About Capsulectomies

The breasts are composed of glandular tissue, fat, and connective tissue. When silicone or saline implants are placed during breast augmentation, the body responds by forming a capsule of scar tissue around the foreign material over time. This process is normal, but sometimes the capsule can become excessively thick and tight, causing discomfort and altering the appearance of the breasts. In these cases, a capsulectomy becomes necessary.

Capsulectomy is most commonly performed in conjunction with implant removal or replacement, though it can be done independently in select cases. Undergoing capsulectomy offers more than reducing discomfort. Patients often seek this treatment to regain confidence and restore the natural breast feel. The ultimate goal of the procedure is to ensure that patients can enjoy their results fully without the hindrance of unpleasant side effects.

Benefits

Aside from alleviating discomfort, addressing breast misalignment, and offering patients peace of mind, capsulectomies bring numerous benefits with them. Under the expertise of Dr. Bachelor, patients see treatment advantages like:

Candidates

Ideal candidates for capsulectomy include individuals experiencing symptoms of capsular contracture, including changes in breast size, firmness, or shape; pain or discomfort due to pressure from the capsule around the implant; and/or an unsatisfactory aesthetic appearance due to the impacted breast shape or firmness.

Candidates should also be in good overall health and possess realistic expectations about potential outcomes. Consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Bachelor will provide insight into whether capsulectomy is appropriate for your specific situation.

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation is crucial for determining if you are an appropriate candidate for capsulectomy. During your meeting, Dr. Bachelor will meticulously review your medical history, assess the condition of your breasts, and listen to your concerns regarding your current implants. This thorough exploration allows us to develop a customized plan that accurately aligns with your goals.

Dr. Bachelor will explain the different techniques available for capsulectomy and what you can expect during and after the procedure. All your questions will be answered, and we will take the time to ensure that you feel comfortable moving forward with the recommended plan.

Begin your capsulectomy treatment today by scheduling your consultation. You can reach us online through our contact form, or you can call our Pleasanton or Danville locations directly at (925) 462-3700.

Preparation

Once your capsulectomy date has been established, you will receive detailed preoperative instructions to maximize safety and promote effective healing. These may include:

You may receive additional preparation requirements depending on your unique circumstances and medical history, so please ensure that you read through yours carefully and discuss any concerns with Dr. Bachelor or another member of the East Bay Aesthetic Surgery team.

Procedure

After anesthesia administration, Dr. Bachelor will make incisions based on those made during the previous implant placement procedure (under the breast fold, around the nipple-areolar complex, or in the armpit) to minimize the appearance of scarring. Once he gains access to the internal breast tissues, the scar tissue capsule is then gently dissected and removed. ⁽²⁾

Once the procedure is completed, incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied to support initial healing. The entire procedure typically lasts between one to two hours, though this can vary based on individual conditions.

Recovery

Postoperatively, you will likely experience some swelling and bruising. Compression garments may be recommended to aid healing. Typically, patients are encouraged to take it easy for the first several days, gradually resuming normal activities within a week or two. Follow-up appointments will be needed to monitor healing progress. Full recovery may take about six weeks, during which you should avoid strenuous activities and resume your usual routines progressively, with Dr. Bachelor’s approval.

Results

Many patients experience noticeable improvement after capsulectomy, with relief from discomfort and a more natural, aesthetically pleasing breast appearance. Scarring from incisions is typically minimal, often hidden in natural creases, and tends to fade over time.

Most patients report increased satisfaction with both the look and feel of their breasts after their procedure, leading to improved quality of life and self-confidence.

Corresponding Procedures

Patients have the option of including multiple breast procedures in their capsulectomy treatment plan. Many patients will want to remove their breast implants during their capsulectomy. This is achieved through a breast implant removal procedure. Once implants are removed, many patients may also undergo a breast lift (mastopexy) to raise their breasts to a more youthful and attractive position. This is especially beneficial if removing breast implants leaves the breasts looking sagging or deflated. While many patients may want to remove implants, just as many patients may elect to replace their implants to maintain their appearance. A specialized breast implant revision or replacement procedure can be performed in these situations.

Cost of a Capsulectomy in the Bay Area (Danville and Pleasanton)

The cost of your capsulectomy procedure will depend on the scale of the procedure, the issues being addressed, whether or not additional procedures are performed, and other factors. After you meet with Dr. Bachelor to plan your treatment, you will receive a comprehensive price quote. East Bay Aesthetic Surgery also offers various financing options and payment plans to help you access and plan your treatment.

Schedule your consultation today to learn more about the costs associated with capsulectomy. If you have any further questions, please call our Pleasanton or Danville offices directly at (925) 462-3700.

FAQ

References

1. Swanson E. Open Capsulotomy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2016;4(10):e1096. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000001096
2. Swanson E. Evaluating the Necessity of Capsulectomy in Cases of Textured Breast Implant Replacement. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2020;85(6):691-698. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/sap.0000000000002301